Dress The Dream
"One Dress Can Make a Difference"
A social enterprise based in Bangkok aims to empower women in Southeast Asia. Seed for the Future Award 2017.
Background
The rise of fast fashion has led to severe environmental and social consequences.
Every year, millions of tonnes of clothing end up in landfills. The fashion industry also contributes significantly to water pollution, microplastic contamination and excessive carbon emissions. Furthermore, much of garment production relies on unethical labour practices, particularly the exploitation of underpaid and unprotected female workers.
Moreover, we were also inspired by the cultural insight that many women who frequently attend social events often own beautiful dresses that have only been worn once or twice before being left untouched in their wardrobes.
Business Model
Dress the Dream was founded as a social business that connects people who may have quality second-hand clothes they no longer need with women who could make use of them.
We give new life to donated second-hand clothing, especially quality dresses that many women hesitate to give away despite no longer using them. These garments are sorted, cleaned, and either sold online for formal use, resold at second-hand markets, or donated to those in need.
​
All net profits support women’s empowerment programs and are donated to organizations that protect women’s rights. By connecting fashion with purpose, we aim to prove that one dress can make a difference — for the planet and for women.
​
Value Proposition
-
For Donors: A sustainable and socially impactful way to pass on unused clothing.
-
For Customers: Access to quality second-hand fashion items at affordable prices.
-
For Society: Reduced fashion waste and direct support for gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives.
​​
Target Audience
-
Environmentally conscious consumers who are seeking sustainable fashion options.
-
Donors who want to reduce fashion waste and support social causes.
-
First-jobbers and interns who are interested in affordable clothing.
​​
Revenue Streams
-
Online sales of premium second-hand clothing.
-
Wholesale sales at second-hand markets.
-
Occasional partnership events or workshops.
Events and Partnerships
Since 2018, Dress the Dream has organized annual events and collaborative campaigns to promote sustainable fashion and support women’s empowerment. These events are key opportunities for community engagement and raising awareness.
Over the years, we have partnered with organisations from various industries, including fashion, retail, hospitality, education and non-profits, to co-create campaigns that combine purpose with creativity. Our events range from second-hand fashion pop-ups and themed styling workshops to charity sales and panel talks on sustainability and gender equality.
